The Path of Life

Open

Before you begin, see how many of the Ten Commandments you can each name from memory. Then have a group member read Exodus 20:1-21 aloud.

Reflect

Why is it significant that verse 2 comes before the Ten Commandments? How does verse 2 shape what comes after it?

Read the Ten Commandments closely. What patterns do you note? Do the commandments seem to follow any logical progression? Do some “go together” as a group?

Read Deuteronomy 5:12-15 and compare it with Exodus 20:8-11. What difference do you see in Moses’ words? What light does this shed on the purpose of the Sabbath?

Look at verses 18-21. Compare them to Deuteronomy 5:4-5 and 5:24-29 (ask a group member to read these verses aloud). What new insight does Deuteronomy 5:28-29 give regarding God’s purpose for giving the law?

Apply

Have a group member or two read Matthew 5:21-31. What role should the Ten Commandments play in the life of the Christian? How does Jesus call for a deeper obedience to God’s commands? What external acts of righteousness are you most prone to practice while having a heart that is inconsistent and sinful?

Which personal relationships spoken about in the Ten Commandments are the hardest for you to maintain in a godly way? How can the group encourage and pray for you regarding those relationships?

Close

What attribute of God did you see in this week’s passage that particularly struck you? How should it change the way you pray, think, speak or act this week?

Ideas for Family Discipleship

Time

Set aside time this week for your family to read Exodus 20:1-21 together. Highlight some of the main points, read through the Ten Commandments again and then answer these questions together.

// What do you think would change in your life tomorrow if there were suddenly no laws in America?

// Do you see laws as a blessing from God? Why or why not?

// Are there any of the Ten Commandments that are particularly difficult for your family?

// Spend some time praying that your family would know God’s laws, be obedient to God’s laws and be quick to offer and ask for forgiveness.

Moments

Leverage opportunities this week to point out laws that protect us and guide us. Use those opportunities to talk about why following the law is good and how breaking the law comes with consequences. In that, God is just—God is right to punish sin.

Milestones

The Ten Commandments were written in stone and intended to last in every way. Is there any mission specific to your family that you might consider making into a lasting symbol?